Fierce Weather in the Florida Panhandle

In Altha, zip 32421 we are within 30 air miles from the Gulf of Mexico. with the gulf's warm water often storms that reach the gulf increase in power. Just the shape of and location and gulf's own properties make it a boiling point for fierce weather. Located in such close proximity folks living in the gulf are very aware of the danger although we tend to stay instead of run when sever weather strikes.

In Altha, Marianna and Blountstown geography dictates the reaction to weather coming from the gulf. Located between the Chipola and the Apalachicola Rivers chance of flooding is immense. Since moving here in 2003 we have been lucky here in Altha, personally Brian and myself have not fled the weather and have had minimum flood damage, no wind damage and been fortunate in every way.

Being prepared to run when a Hurricane approaches is vital to survival in the panhandle. Florida in general has more chance of a direct hit being elongated, protruding so far into the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. When a hurricane or tropical storm approaches generally they seem to come into the gulf by skirting or slamming into southern Florida entering the very warm waters of the gulf. that warm water fuels the storms like a rocket, increasing the fury and destructive power of an already dangerous weather calamity. One must prepare to evade or shore up for the destruction of severe weather . Being prepared with supplies for at least 4 or 5 days seems only prudent. Boarding up windows and doors, stocking can goods, fresh water, a radio and batteries, blankets and dry clothing is most imperative.

Suggested supplies can be found online, on TV and in print. Pick a list and be prepared for Florida's severe weather. Make a plan, where to go, what to do, what order things need doing and keep informed of the exact conditions of each and every storm the nears the Gulf. One cannot know what will happen. Our National Weather Service and NOAA have over the last few years drastically increased awareness and predictions of approaching storms. The stories from the Katrina hurricane hitting Louisiana are proof to me that we should run for cover when a chance of be hit is present.

Wikipedia Flood_damage

Wikipedia National Weather Service